Echocardiogram
What is an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram or Echo, is a test which utilizes high frequency sound waves to obtain images of your heart and its structures. This test is used to determine if your heart is the cause of your illness or contributing to your illness in any way.
How is the test completed?
During the test you will be asked to lie on your left side (if possible), while a trained technician records the images of your heart on a VCR tape, which usually last less than 30 minutes.. This procedure does not hurt and no known complications have ever occurred. During the test you may hear several strange noises coming from the machine. Do not become alarmed. These noises are actually the sound of your blood being pumped through your heart.
Upon completion of the test, the technician will clean off the special gel, which is used for the procedure, from your chest and print out all of the necessary reports. These reports will be placed in the appropriate physician’s file to be read. The technician will not discuss any findings or conclusions about the test with you. Your personal physician is responsible for providing you with this information. If you have any further questions, please call the CVP Lab at 740.439.8460.
Further Questions Concerning your Echocardiogram?
